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The U.S. Department of Justice filed a lawsuit against Live Nation Entertainment on May 23, 2024, alleging the company monopolized the live music industry. The lawsuit, filed in federal court in New York, claims Live Nation used its dominance to stifle competition and harm artists, venues, and fans. The DOJ seeks to break up Live Nation and Ticketmaster, which merged in 2010, arguing the combined entity controls an estimated 60% to 70% of primary ticket sales for major U.S. concert venues. The complaint details how Live Nation allegedly uses its control over venues to force artists into exclusive contracts with Ticketmaster for ticketing services. This practice, according to the DOJ, makes it difficult for rival ticketing companies to compete and limits artists' choices. The lawsuit also highlights Live Nation's alleged use of exclusive agreements and retaliatory tactics against venues that work with competitors. The U.S. is joined by 29 states and the District of Columbia in this antitrust action. The outcome could significantly reshape the landscape of live event ticketing and promotion.